Henry Pendleton Irish, a resident of Fayette Co. for more than 60 years, pioneer, farmer, dairyman, farm bureau lecturer, passed away March 29, 1927, at the home of his daughter Edith, at Riverside, CA, where he had gone following the death of his son and wife. He was born January 10, 1852, at Stonington, CT, the son of Daniel Babcock Irish and Mary Babcock.
At the age of 14 he came to Farina with his parents and brother William. Upon his arrival at Farina, his father purchased a quarter section of land a mile north and east of Farina; following the death of his father Henry became the owner, under whose management it became one of the best farms in Fayette Co.
He was an authority on crop rotation, soil building, and preservation; an experienced dairyman, skilled in the matter of dairy types, dairy feeds, and the value of balanced rations. He was a botanist and an ornithologist of no mean ability. During the latter part of his life he lectured in practically all the counties of southern Illinois under the direction of the Illinois Farm Bureau.
November 17, 1881, he was united in marriage to Eva Bond, to which union were born 2 children, Harry B. who died May 10, 1926, and Edith, following whose birth the mother passed away.
January 18, 1893, he was married to Mary Jane Haven, who preceded him in death October 13, 1926. Mr. Irish was the only remaining resident charter member of the Farina Church. While engaged in many duties of a secular nature, home duties came first and church obligations second. He was of an affectionate nature; his home was known far and wide for its genuine hospitality. He was fond of children and was interested in their growth in the best things. His love for children was particularly manifested in his associations with his granddaughter, Rowena. His loss will be keenly felt in the family circle of his daughter, and by his many other relatives, by the members of the church of his faith (Seventh Day Baptist) and by his neighbors and fellow citizens.
The funeral service was held Sunday afternoon at the Methodist church on account of the serious illness of the wife of his pastor, Rev. C. L. Hill, who conducted the service. The body was laid to rest in the Farina cemetery.
